Sport
Your Guide to the RDS Dublin Horse Show
Get ready for five unforgettable days of horses, high fashion, and family fun as the RDS Dublin Horse Show returns from 6–10 August for its 150th show.
With over 160 classes and competitions and an impressive prize fund of almost €1.5m, this year’s Show is set to be the most memorable to date.
Ballsbridge in Dublin 4 is soon set to transform into the epicentre for equine lovers from across the country and indeed the world with the upcoming RDS Dublin Horse Show. Offering something for every equine enthusiast and general attendee alike by seamlessly combining sport and showing, style and socialising, the Show remains the quintessential sporting spectacle in the heart of Dublin.
Over five action-packed days, visitors can enjoy more than 168 competitions, including top-level international show jumping and young horse classes.
The highlight for many is the Nations Cup of Ireland for the Aga Khan Trophy; a team event taking place on the Friday. Saturday brings the Defender Puissance, where riders tackle the iconic red wall, and on Sunday, the Rolex Grand Prix closes the show with the sport’s biggest names and a substantial prize fund.
Ladies’ Day and Best Dressed Competition
A much anticipated highlight of the show, the Best Dressed Competition, sponsored by Poretti, will take place on Thursday 7 August on the vibrant Band Lawn of the RDS. Traditionally referred to as Ladies’ Day, the Best Dressed Competition has evolved into a highlight of the show, offering a vibrant showcase of Irish fashion, and once again, promises to be an extraordinary experience. The overall Best Dressed winner will receive a cash prize of €10,000.
Leading the judging panel for the sixth consecutive year is renowned fashion luminary Bairbre Power, “Witnessing the camaraderie among those in the queue is what makes this event so special. We just need to keep the fingers crossed that it’s a dry day!”
Adding to the excitement, TV and radio presenter Laura Woods is back once again as MC. “I love the day, talking to all the Best Dressed entrants, hearing the unique stories behind their outfit choice. It is a unique event in that everyone who enters has their moment on stage in front of the judges and the audience. It’s full on and to be honest, it takes a day or two after for my feet and my voice to get back to normal!”
Beyond the coveted top prize, several other prestigious awards await stylish participants:
- Best Dressed Runner Up: Two nights B&B at the 5-star Morrison Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, and two nights B&B at The Trafalgar St. James, Curio Collection by Hilton.
- Best Hat (sponsored by Ireland’s Blue Book): A €2000 voucher offering unparalleled opportunities for unique stays and fine dining experiences across Ireland’s most charming properties.
- Best Dressed Duo (sponsored by Cashel Palace Hotel): An overnight suite stay for two with dinner in the Michelin-starred Bishop’s Buttery and a €100 for The Boutique at Cashel Palace.
- Irish Heritage & Sustainability Style Award (sponsored by Jack Murphy): Prizes include a two-night midweek escape at Rowan Gate Lodge, Mount Congreve Gardens (worth €650) and a €1,500 Jack Murphy wardrobe voucher.
Newly added to the Best Dressed competition this year, the Irish Heritage & Sustainability Award embraces Ireland’s rich cultural and sartorial heritage. Stylist Anne O’Shea will be on the Band Lawn seeking out those who embody this ethos, whether it’s a modern twist on classic tweed, a beautifully tailored coat, or a unique accessory, wearing their heritage with pride.
The overall Best Dressed winner will receive the incredible cash prize of €10,000.
Registration for Best Dressed is now open:
Family Fun
The Family Area, set just behind the Grandstand in the Church grounds, is the perfect spot to keep kids of all ages entertained all day long. Enjoy exciting activities including circus performances, face-painting, balloon artists, and a Mini Defender driving course. Don’t miss the impressive seven-metre climbing wall, and be sure to stop by the Library in the Community for some fun, educational activities.
With shaded seating, convenient baby-changing facilities, and plenty of food options close by, it’s easy to relax and make a full day of it. Children under four go free, and family passes offer excellent value for a great day out.
Spanish Horseman Supremo, Santi Serra Returns
Performing at this year’s show is renowned equestrian artist and ‘horse whisperer’, Santi Serra, who is sure to captivate audiences with his exceptional horsemanship skills, precision riding, and charismatic stage presence.
Santi Serra will perform on each day of the Show. His demonstrations promise to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing the incredible bond he has with his animals, and his mastery of dressage. Santi’s performances have wowed crowds at some of the most iconic and prestigious equestrian events worldwide, and his unique blend of artistry, skill, and showmanship has made him a beloved figure in the equestrian world.
This year, Santi’s performances will feature a spectacular display with four horses and an eagle, highlighting his incredible skill and the artistry he can create with his animal friends. Santi’s passion for his animals and his deep understanding of their behaviour and psychology are evident in every aspect of his performances. His ability to connect with his equine partners without the use of a bridle, saddle, or any tack, and to convey their beauty and strength is truly inspiring.
Santi Serra’s love affair with animals began at a young age on his family’s farm in Spain, where, surrounded by horses, he learned the value of hard work, dedication, and respect for these magnificent creatures. As he grew older, Santi’s passion for horses only deepened, leading him to pursue a career in horsemanship.
A Day Out Like No Other
Beyond the arena, the Show is a true celebration of style, food, and entertainment. A highlight for many is the Anglesea Food Market, where you’ll find everything from gourmet toasties to delicious vegan treats. Across the grounds, food trucks and sit-down restaurants provide an excellent variety of options to suit every taste. For something extra special, the Champagne and Seafood Restaurant is the place to see and be seen, serving Irish seafood platters, charcuterie boards, fine wines, and Louis Roederer champagne.
No visit is complete without exploring the Shopping Village, home to over 300 stands selling artisan crafts, stylish clothing, homewares, and riding gear. And if you’re planning to take part in the Best Dressed competition on Thursday, you might just discover the perfect outfit here.
Whether you’re there for the horses, the food, the fashion, or just a fun family day out like no other, the RDS Dublin Horse Show continues to offer something for everyone.
With this year marking its 150th edition, it’s a great time to experience one of Ireland’s most prestigious events.
How do I get there?
Visitors are encouraged to utilise the many public transport options available when travelling to the RDS Dublin Horse Show. There are several major Dublin Bus routes that stop either right beside the venue or within a 5–10-minute walk. You can find more information on these HERE.
Additionally, the show is within a short walking distance of two Irish Rail Dart stations at Sandymount and Lansdowne Road.
If you are planning to drive to the show, please note that there is no parking at the RDS venue. You can find more information HERE about pre-paid car parking available during the show, with free shuttle bus transfers.
Tickets are on sale now HERE. Get up to 15% discount when you buy tickets online.
